Sunday, April 13, 2025

Spring and Planting Seeds

The Metaphor of Parenting and Planting Seeds: Nurturing Growth Through Care and Patience


Parenting is one of the most profound and challenging journeys we embark on in life. It’s a role that requires patience,

love, and constant adaptation. As parents, we often wonder: Are we doing enough? Are we guiding our children in the

right direction? There’s an age-old metaphor that speaks to this very question—parenting is like planting seeds.

At first glance, the comparison may seem simple, but it offers a beautiful lens through which we can understand the

complexities of raising children. Like planting seeds, parenting is about sowing the right conditions for growth and

then giving the necessary care for that growth to unfold naturally. It’s a process, not an instant result. But just as

plants do not grow in a straight line, neither does parenting. There is an added depth in the metaphor when we acknowledge

the unpredictable, sometimes wild, and unique path each child’s growth takes.





We love this metaphor in Science of Mind- it is in fact, one of the core concepts of what we teach. And I am reminded

of it every year when spring returns and we begin to see the return of the sun.

1. The Seeds: Our Children’s Potential

Just as seeds are tiny and full of potential, so too are our children when they are born. They come into the world with

a unique combination of talents, traits, and temperament. As parents, we can't fully predict how each child will

develop, just as we can't always predict how a seed will grow. What we do know, however, is that the potential for

something amazing is already there, waiting to be nurtured.But here's where the twist comes in: Not all seeds grow in the same way. Just as a sunflower and an oak tree are both

seeds but grow into vastly different forms, our children will blossom in unique ways. As parents, we might have a

vision of how we want them to grow, but sometimes their path looks different from our expectations. A “weed” in one

garden might be a treasured wildflower in another, and in this analogy, some of the traits we might perceive as

challenging in our children—like rebelliousness or independence—might just be signs of the incredible individuals

they are destined to become.

2. The Soil: Providing a Safe and Supportive Environment

For seeds to grow, they need healthy soil—rich, supportive, and free of harmful elements. Similarly, our children

need a safe, nurturing environment where they feel loved, valued, and encouraged to explore the world around them.

The "soil" we provide as parents is made up of the relationships we cultivate, the home environment we create, and

the emotional safety we foster.


However, just as plants can adapt to different soil types, children, too, are resilient. They can flourish even in

less-than-ideal conditions. This doesn’t mean we should settle for poor soil, but it’s a reminder that even when life

doesn’t provide the perfect circumstances, children still have the capacity to grow, adapt, and surprise us with their

strength and creativity. The "soil"we provide is still important, but part of parenting is acknowledging that the circumstances don’t always define the

outcome—our children are adaptable, too.

3. Watering: Consistency and Attention

Seeds need water to thrive, and so do our children. Consistent care, attention, and emotional nourishment are essential

in parenting. This doesn’t mean constantly hovering over them, but providing the regular doses of encouragement,

love, and structure that allow them to flourish.

Watering a plant is an act of both patience and intention. A plant can’t be overwatered (just like children can’t be

over-parented), but it certainly can’t be neglected. Too little attention leaves seeds and plants dry and stagnant, while

too much stifles their natural development.

But here’s a thought to add a new perspective: Sometimes, letting the plants (or children) weather a drought builds

strength. Just as plants can grow deeper roots when faced with periods of dryness, children too learn resilience

through adversity. If every moment were drenched with care, they might not develop the inner strength they need to

thrive independently. Occasionally stepping back, allowing them to face challenges, and letting them learn how to

“water” themselves can help them grow in ways we may not fully realize at the moment.

4. The Sunlight: Growth Through Opportunities and Experiences

Like sunlight to a plant, exposure to new experiences and opportunities fosters growth. As parents, we need to create

opportunities for our children to explore, learn, and stretch beyond their comfort zones. These "rays of sunlight" are

the lessons, experiences, and challenges that allow them to develop their strengths, resilience, and independence.

However, just as a plant needs the right amount of sunlight, children also need balance. Too little sunlight—whether

in the form of too little guidance, too few challenges, or too much sheltering—can result in stunted growth.

Conversely, too much exposure, too early, can overwhelm them. The key is finding the right balance, allowing them

to thrive while also offering shade when the heat gets too intense.

But think about this: Sometimes, clouds are necessary for growth. A cloudy day might seem like a temporary setback,

but it provides relief, coolness, and space for growth without the harshness of too much sun. Similarly, the “clouds”

in our children’s lives—the moments of difficulty, confusion, or uncertainty—often lead to some of the most

meaningful growth. Growth doesn’t always happen under the direct gaze of sunlight; sometimes, it flourishes in the

quiet, reflective moments of life's cloudy days.

5. Time: Growth Is a Process

Just as plants don’t bloom overnight, children don’t grow into their full potential immediately. Parenting takes time,

and the growth we hope to see in our children is gradual and unfolds at its own pace. There are no shortcuts to

nurturing a child’s development. Some seeds sprout quickly, while others take time to show their potential.

Patience is one of the most important qualities a parent can cultivate. You might water your plants faithfully, make

sure they’re getting sunlight, and tend to them lovingly, but they might not bloom as quickly as you hope. That’s the

nature of growth—it doesn’t always happen when we want it to, but with time and care, the right results will come.

But here's the new thought: Not all growth is visible at the same time. Sometimes the most profound changes happen

beneath the surface, in the roots or the inner landscape of our children’s hearts and minds. Parents may not always

see the outward signs of progress right away, but trust that there’s often a lot happening below ground that will

eventually push through. And when it does, it might come in unexpected forms.

6. Weeds: Facing Challenges and Setbacks

Even in the healthiest of gardens, weeds grow. Weeds in the parenting metaphor represent challenges, obstacles, and

setbacks. These might come in the form of struggles with behavior, difficult emotions, or external pressures from

school, peers, or society. Just as a gardener needs to remove weeds to allow plants to grow, parents must help their

children navigate difficulties, helping them to "weed out" negative behaviors, influences, or thoughts.

However, some weeds are actually wildflowers in disguise. What seems like a negative trait or behavior in the

moment could be a sign of a child’s individuality, creativity, or desire to challenge norms. Rather than simply pulling

up every “weed,” it may be worth asking: What is this telling me about who my child is becoming? Sometimes, the

very weeds we try to remove are the seeds of their unique path forward.

7. Harvesting: Celebrating the Fruits of Our Labor

Finally, the moment arrives when the fruits of our labor are ready to be harvested. Just as a gardener takes pride in the

flowers, fruits, or vegetables that bloom after months or years of care, parents also celebrate their children's

milestones.

The first steps, the graduation, the moment they become independent thinkers—these moments are the harvest of the

time and care we’ve invested.

But here’s the twist: The harvest is never really over. Just as gardeners might find themselves planting new seeds

every season, parents are always part of the growing process, even as their children mature. The beauty of the

parent-child relationship is that it continues to evolve, just like an ever-growing garden. There’s no final "harvest"

moment; the process is ongoing, with new seasons of growth always on the horizon.

Conclusion: The Everlasting Cycle of Growth

Parenting, like planting seeds, is an ongoing cycle. As we nurture, care, and provide for our children, we watch them

grow into the people they are meant to be. The process requires us to be patient, intentional, and adaptable.

Sometimes we may not see the immediate results of our efforts, but over time, we witness the fruits of our labor—

the blossoming of a life that was once only a seed of potential.

In the end, the beauty of the metaphor lies in its reminder that we are stewards of life, tending to these little seeds

with love, care, and the belief that they will one day flourish in ways we can’t yet imagine. As parents, we plant the

seeds; the rest of the journey is theirs to unfold. And in this way, the garden of parenting is not just about what we

can do for our children, but also about honoring and celebrating the wild, unpredictable, and deeply individual nature

of their growth.





I look forward to seeing your cherished little (and big) ones each Sunday as do our volunteers. We love being part of

the village that tends to the garden. Stay tuned for opportunities coming to the Youth and Family Program.


Jennifer Caldwell

Youth and Family Coordinator


Tuesday, March 18, 2025

A Science of Mind Camp- Made Especially for Teens!

Teen Camp Summer 2025




It happens twice a year and is the highlight of the summer for teens. Center for Spiritual Living teens from all over the United States come together to share in fellowship. This summer we will be there from July 19-25. Its a fun week filled with Spiritual growth good ole' fashioned summer camp fun. Here is the official camp site where you can learn more. 

https://csl.org/teencamp/


If you think you might like to go or if you know of a teen that might enjoy it- feel free to reach out. Registration begins March 15 and goes until May 1. We have scholarships available and some fun fundraising opportunities.  




We will have a parent meeting March 23 at 1pm on Sunday. If you can't make it- please reach out to the Youth and Family Coordinator at jennifer.caldwell@cslsr.org


If you would like to donate directly to the scholarship fund to help a teen that would benefit from scholarship- please use this form. 


https://cslsr.breezechms.com/form/c6264e


Sunday, February 2, 2025

February 2025

February 2025

Monthly Theme Summary:


This month, we focus on Interconnectedness, exploring the deep connections that bind us all. In February, we are

invited to recognize the Spirit within ourselves and others, honor our bodies as sacred, and see the beauty of unity

in everyone we encounter.


The teachings of Science of Mind remind us that we are all part of one divine Source, intricately woven into a

single, unified existence. As Ernest Holmes teaches, “We are all rooted in the One Life, which is Spirit. Each of us

is an individualized expression of that Divine Unity.”


Throughout February, we’ll explore the ways we can honor this truth in our daily lives. Through mindfulness,

intentional living, and acts of love and kindness, we can deepen our awareness of the connections we share. By

focusing on interconnectedness, we recognize that every thought, word, and action has the potential to create ripples

that extend far beyond ourselves.


For our youth and teens, we’ll incorporate activities that celebrate unity and compassion. From meaningful

Valentine’s Day projects to exploring Black History Month through the lens of shared humanity, we’ll encourage

them to honor the sacred ties that unite us all. Together, we’ll embrace the truth that we are never alone—we are all

part of a greater whole.


This month, we’ll emphasize the virtues of Compassion and Unity.




Exploring the Theme:

We will deepen our understanding of Interconnectedness by focusing on the following areas:Expressions of Love and Gratitude: Reflecting on Valentine’s Day, we will explore ways to create heartfelt

expressions of love and gratitude. This could include projects like writing “love letters to the world” or

creating art that celebrates our connections to others and the world around us.


Celebrating Shared Humanity: During Black History Month, we will highlight the interconnectedness of

cultures and celebrate the contributions of Black leaders to the collective whole. This reflection will show

how every culture and individual is woven into the greater fabric of humanity.


Learning Our Center’s Benediction: As a community, we’ll reflect on and practice the affirmation:

“Life is in my mind, Love is in my heart, Spirit is my guide.” This practice will help us recognize the

Spirit that flows through all and connects us to one another.


The Web of Connection: Inspired by the concept of 6 Degrees of Separation, we will explore the idea

that we are all connected in ways seen and unseen. This can help us understand how our actions ripple

outward to affect the whole.


This Little Light of Mine: We’ll celebrate individuality and unity by reflecting on the song “This Little Light

of Mine” and creating opportunities to share our unique light with the world. Whether through song,

projects, or small acts of kindness, we’ll honor the ways our light contributes to the collective.


(Teens exploring January themes, creating collaborative art that will become a teen fundraiser in the future.)


Affirmations for the Month:

Week 1 (2/2): Grounded in the self-within, I connect compassionately with the world around me.

Week 2 (2/9): I delight in the wonder of my body and treat it kindly.

Week 3 (2/16): A deep feeling of love infuses all I do and think.

Week 4 (2/23): I am open to a life of connection, compassion, and caring.


Affirmative Prayer for Interconnectedness


I recognize the Spirit that flows through all life, connecting every being in an infinite web of love and unity.

This Spirit is the essence of creation, moving through me, as me, and around me.


I affirm that I am inseparably connected to all that is. Each thought, word, and action I express ripples outward,

touching the lives of others and returning to me in perfect harmony. I honor the truth that the universe is a unified

whole, and I celebrate the beauty of our shared existence.


I know that my body is a sacred temple, a vessel through which Spirit expresses itself. I honor this temple with

kindness and care, and I honor the same Spirit in everyone I meet. I embrace the infinite love that binds us together,

trusting that I am always supported, always held, and never alone.


With gratitude for this truth, I release this prayer into the Law, knowing it is already so. And so it is.


Stay grounded,

Jennifer Caldwell

Youth and Family Coordinator

Tuesday, January 28, 2025

January 2025

January 2025

January Announcements:

1/5/25 - Jewel Shield Sound Meditation & Harp

1/17-1/20 - Winter Teen Camp, Veronia Orgeon (stay tuned for a post about our trip!)


Monthly Theme Summary:

As we welcome the fresh energy of a new year, this month, we’ll be exploring the theme of Stretching into Possibility through the lens of Science of Mind Principles. January invites us to embrace the new, stretch beyond comfort zones, and trust the infinite potential that lies within.


This season is often one of reflection and renewal. Just as a tree stretches its roots deeper into the earth while reaching its branches toward the sky, we too can ground ourselves in spiritual truth as we grow into the expansive possibilities ahead.


For our youth and teens, this is a time to cultivate resilience and self-belief. Through stories, activities, and discussion, we’ll teach them to lean into the discomfort of growth and recognize that challenges are part of the creative process of Spirit. We’ll emphasize that stretching into possibility doesn’t mean perfection; it means curiosity, courage, and faith in the infinite.


This month, we will focus on the virtues of Courage and Faith. Together, we’ll explore how these qualities support us in growing into our highest potential and creating a life aligned with our purpose.


Affirmations for the Month:

Week 1: I stretch into new possibilities with confidence and grace.

Week 2: Infinite potential flows through me. I trust the process of growth.

Week 3: I rise to meet every challenge, knowing Spirit moves through me.

Week 4: My heart expands with faith, and I step boldly into the unknown.

Week 5: I am limitless. I embrace all that I can be and more.

 


Affirmative Prayer for embracing infinite possibility:


I recognize the presence of an infinite, boundless source of wisdom and love that moves through all creation. This presence of Spirit is the very essence of possibility—ever-expanding, ever-evolving, and ever-perfect.


I affirm that I am one with Spirit. Its power flows through me and expresses itself as me. I am a channel for spiritual creativity, strength, and joy. As I stretch into new opportunities, I trust that every step is guided by a higher wisdom.


I know that growth is a natural part of life, and I welcome the unfolding of infinite possibilities with an open heart and mind. I release fear and limitation, knowing that I am supported by Spirit in every moment. I stand firm in faith, trusting the perfect unfolding of my journey.


I release this prayer with gratitude, knowing that it is already done. And so it is.


Warmly,

Jennifer Caldwell

Youth and Family Coordinator

Wednesday, December 4, 2024

December 2024 -Sticking the Landing

Sunday Topics at a Glance. I will post the monthly topics here and also any special notes each month.

If you are ever wanting to know more - feel free to reach out to youth@cslsr.org



December  2024

December Announcements:

12/8 Wreaths Anticipated for distribution

12/15 Ornament Decorating in social hall from 10-11

12/22 Teen Bake Sale Fundraiser 


Monthly Theme Summary:

This month we’ll be exploring how we can be grounded in Science of Mind Principles as we move through

our lives. There is a darkness that comes each winter which makes us all look inward. We aim to be cozy

and warm. During this time we can teach young people to evaluate their thoughts and beliefs that will

eventually move them to actions. We hope to stay grounded as individuals- though it's not always easy.

When we fall off Center we have to teach young people that it's ok to notice that and to make an effort

to get back to it. We want to teach to find the Truth and that Peace is available to all if you can only look

within. We are teaching that to waver or even fall does not make the gymnast- it’s how you can stick the

landing with purpose. 

 

Each month we choose a few virtues to focus on with the youth and teens.

We choose activities and stories that highlight the virtue. For December, we will focus on Purposefulness

and Service.  



Affirmations for the month:

Week 1: I stand on solid thoughts to co-direct the flow of my life.

Week 2: I let the fire of Infinite Love blaze in my heart!

Week 3: I swim in the flow of Consciousness, sowing Good wherever I go.

Week 4:  I am the Light embodied. I radiate!

Week 5:  I create exciting new ways to experience and express Spirit. I say YES! to Life.




Affirmative Prayer for Oneness with the Divine Creative Process

I recognize and affirm that there is one infinite presence, one boundless intelligence, one perfect creative power that flows through all life. This divine essence is the source and substance of everything, expressing itself inperfect harmony, balance, and love. I know that I am one with this divine creative process. It flows through me, as me, and around me, guiding every thought, word, and action. I am an instrument of this infinite intelligence, and I trust that its wisdom moves me toward greater clarity, peace, and joy. I affirm that every idea in my mind is inspired by the infinite. As I align my thoughts with love, creativity, and truth, I co-create a life of abundance, beauty, and fulfillment. The divine process within me ensures that everything unfolds in perfect order, at the perfect time, and in the perfect way. I release all sense of separation, knowing that I am inseparably connected to the whole of creation. In this awareness of unity, I embrace the infinite possibilities available to me now. I trust the process of life, f

or it is the divine expressing itself perfectly through every experience. With gratitude, I release this prayer into the universal law of mind, knowing it is already fulfilled. And so it is.

Jennifer Caldwell

Youth and Family Coordinator


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